Best attractions and places to see around Barmsee include natural features and trails in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen district of Upper Bavaria. This region is characterized by its clear lake waters and views of the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountain ranges. Barmsee is known for its reflective surface and offers various recreational opportunities. The area provides a setting for outdoor activities and natural exploration.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The lake is simply stunningly beautiful and the surrounding mountains create a magnificent backdrop.
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Reedy landscape and breeding waterfowl. There are also a few benches here for a break.
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The Barmsee is a lake with a maximum length of 1.12 km and a maximum width of 0.49 km in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen district (Upper Bavaria) in the municipality of Krün north of Mittenwald. There is a small bathing area on the northwest shore of the lake. Source and further information at: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barmsee One of the many beautiful small alpine lakes that line up here along the cycle path in the mountain panorama not far from the Isar Valley. It's simply lovely to cycle along here.
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Beautiful location, not just as a place to swim. Wonderful view of the Barmsee. Beautiful spot by the water and one of the most beautiful rest areas on the route.
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Simply beautiful photo motif, no matter from which location 👍❤️🥾
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A very nice tour with a few elevation gain. The approximately 5.5 km long route leads along easily accessible hiking trails around the lake, offering hikers beautiful views of the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountains. The starting point is the town center of Krün, accessible via the bus stop of the same name. From there you turn directly into Krottenkopfstrasse (if you arrive by car there is a hiking parking lot there) and follow the signs in the direction of Barmsee along Krottenkopfstrasse further across the meadows with a view of the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountains to the north bank of the Barmsee. The lake invites the whole family to linger or swim. We continue following the signs and the path towards the Barmsee district, past scattered meadows, sometimes steeply uphill over a wooded hill, past Grubsee to the Alpengasthof Barmsee. From there, always follow the road to Krün.
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The best way to experience Lake Barmsee is on the Three Lakes Hiking Trail. The hike connects the Barmsee with the Geroldsee and the Grubsee. From spring onwards, seas of flowers such as crocuses, gentians, carnations and even orchids thrive here. The Barmsee is refreshingly clear, but also warm up to 24 degrees in summer. Ideal for swimming! A leisurely bike tour leads from Krün and Wallgau through the forest directly to the northwestern shore of the lake, where the sun stays for a long time. There you can lie comfortably in the meadow or swim in small pebble bays. In winter, cross-country ski trails and winter hiking trails lead along Lake Barmsee. You can glide sportily or take a leisurely stroll along the bank and enjoy the sunny expanse. The best thing about Barmsee: whether you're hiking, swimming or cross-country skiing, you always have a view of the enormous mountain panorama. (https://www.alpenwelt-karwendel.de/barmsee-bergsee-kruen)
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The primary natural feature is Barmsee itself, known for its clear waters and stunning reflections of the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountain ranges. The lake also features reedy areas that provide habitat for waterfowl. Nearby, you can find the warmer Grubsee and the picturesque Geroldsee (Wagenbrüchsee) with its idyllic alpine scenery.
Yes, the Barmsee Circular Trail is an easy and popular hiking path that encircles the lake, offering continuous beautiful views. It's suitable for families and can be completed in about 1.5 hours. You'll find romantic benches along the path to rest and enjoy the scenery.
The most popular spot for swimming and sunbathing is the Barmsee Bathing Area, located on the northwestern shore. This area provides a great opportunity to relax on the lawn and enjoy the mountain panorama while cooling off in the lake's refreshing water.
There are several cycling routes in the area, including easy options like the 'Karwendel view – Church in Krün loop' or the 'Isar Bridge near Krün – Isar Cycle Path Near Krün loop'. For more detailed information and other routes, you can explore the Cycling around Barmsee guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the beautiful mountain panorama and the opportunity to cool off in the lake. Many enjoy the tranquility and the impressive views of the Karwendel mountains from the northwestern shore, making it a perfect spot to pause and let the landscape sink in.
Yes, the region offers various mountain hikes. Options range from easier loops like 'Karwendel view – Barmsee loop' to more challenging routes such as the 'Soiern Hut – Fischbachalm loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Mountain Hikes around Barmsee guide.
Barmsee is beautiful year-round. In summer, it's ideal for swimming and sunbathing. During winter, if the lake freezes, you might witness the rare natural phenomenon of 'Eisrosen' (ice flowers) forming on its surface. The mountain reflections are stunning in all seasons, especially at sunrise and sunset.
While Barmsee itself is primarily a natural attraction, the surrounding villages like Krün, Wallgau, and Mittenwald in the Alpenwelt Karwendel region offer cultural insights. These include traditions like violin making, fresco painting (Lüftlmalerei), and traditional costumes. Historically, Barmsee was also the site of a B-17 bomber crash in 1943.
Yes, the Gravel Route Along Geroldsee and Barmsee is a trail that provides very nice views of both lakes and the surrounding mountains, often passing through forests. It's an intermediate route, offering a scenic experience away from main roads.
Barmsee is known for its 'mirror-like reflections' of the surrounding mountains, especially the Karwendel range. In winter, a rare natural phenomenon called 'Eisrosen' (ice flowers) can form on the frozen lake. Additionally, Barmsee is a meromictic lake, meaning its deeper and shallower water layers don't mix completely.
Yes, there are several routes that incorporate waterfalls. For example, you can find moderate routes like 'Small Waterfall Above Wallgau – Magdalena-Neuner Trail loop' or easier ones like 'Krün – Small Waterfall Above Wallgau loop'. More details are available in the Waterfall hikes around Barmsee guide.
Absolutely. The lake's reflective surface and the impressive mountain backdrop make it an ideal location for photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the light creates stunning effects on the water and peaks.


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